Changes in the quality of life of female participants from the University of the Third Age and their predictors

Abstract

Introduction: Quality of life is identified as a key element in healthy ageing. A decrease in physical activity and fitness levels as well as fear or depression increase the frequency of hospitalisation and mortality rate among elderly persons. Moreover, these factors significantly reduce the quality of life. The aim of the study was to determine changes in elderly women's perception of their quality of life that occurred over a period of 3 months of attending regular classes. In addition, the study sought to identify factors that would make it possible to predict these changes. Material and methods: The study included 56 women aged 58 to 85 (M=69.54; SD=6.578). Their quality of life was assessed with an abbreviated version of WHOQOL-Bref questionnaire. Severity of depressive symptoms was examined with the use of the Geriatric Depression Scale (a 15-item version). In order to determine physical fitness levels, FFF Test was carried out. Results: The examined group manifested changes in the depression indicator, i.e. its levels decreased significantly. A considerable increase in self-rated health was observed. There occurred a significant increase in the women's perception of their quality of life in social and environmental domains. No significant changes in the quality of life were noted in physical and psychological domains as well as in overall satisfaction with the quality of life. Conclusions: The findings suggest that attending classes at the UTA may produce benefits in the field of psychological health and life quality, and their scope may depend on the initial state of physical health and physical fitness.

Sociodemographic Determinants of Physical Inactivity of People Aged 60 Years and Older: A Cross-Sectional Study in Poland

“…In the case of older people, this can bring very substantial health and social advantages. It has been proved that physical activity (PA) can decrease the drop in functional status of these people, enabling them to continue everyday activities by retarding functional limitations, hindering a drop in cognitive functions, and providing space for social interactions [ 4 , 5 ]. The quality of their lives can be improved by improving physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning [ 5 , 6 ].…”

“…It has been proved that physical activity (PA) can decrease the drop in functional status of these people, enabling them to continue everyday activities by retarding functional limitations, hindering a drop in cognitive functions, and providing space for social interactions [ 4 , 5 ]. The quality of their lives can be improved by improving physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning [ 5 , 6 ]. Studies show that regular physical activity can decrease the risk of cognitive functions deteriorating by up to 38% [ 7 ], the risk of functional limitations by 30-50% [ 8 , 9 ], and the risk of fractures of the femoral neck by 36-68% [ 8 ].…”

Vislumbrando uma possibilidade para o envelhecimento ativo: as atividades universitárias para idosos

“…A UNATI se configura como programa de educação permanente, não formal, de caráter universitário e multidisciplinar, que reconhece o envelhecimento como processo em que é possível desfrutar de prazer e bem-estar a partir do desenvolvimento intelectual (9)(10) . A participação em tal contexto tem demonstrado papel preditivo para comportamentos favoráveis à saúde (11) e sugerido melhora da autopercepção de saúde e da qualidade de vida (12) .…”

“…Evidências demonstram notória contribuição da UNATI para pontos chave do envelhecimento ativo (1,12) . No entanto, o serviço ainda necessita de subsídios para angariar espaço nas agendas políticas em busca de firmar-se enquanto serviço incentivado, financeiramente, pelo setor governamental (13) .…”

Influence of Whole-Body and Strength Training on Balance and on Falls Risk in Physically Active Women Aged Over 50 Years

“…In more than 50% of instances, falls in older adults result in injuries that lead to hospitalization and decreased functional ability (Edbom-Kolarz et al 2011), and decreased subjective security, which may significantly impact the quality of life (Dunsky 2019, Leś et al 2019. The consequences of falls in older adults are more serious than in younger subjects, as in older subjects bone system is usually weakened by osteoporosis related changes, and defence reflexes are slower as reaction time increases with age (Edbom-Kolarz et al 2011).…”